US Medical Term · symptoms
Dull Ache
Dolor sordo
Also: Molestia persistente (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Dull Ache |
| Spanish (Español) | Dolor sordo |
| Chinese (中文) | 鈍痛 |
| Korean (한국어) | 둔한 통증 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Đau âm ỉ |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Mapurol na kirot |
| Portuguese (Português) | Dor surda |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | อาการปวดตื้อ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 鈍い痛み |
What it means
A dull ache is a steady, low-grade, persistent pain that is less intense than sharp pain but can be constant and wearing. It is often described as a nagging, heavy, or throbbing discomfort. Common sites include the head, back, joints, and muscles. Dull aches may result from muscle tension or overuse, arthritis, chronic infections, nerve compression, or referred pain from organs. Although a dull ache may not feel urgent, ongoing discomfort lasting more than a few days warrants evaluation, especially if it interferes with sleep or daily activities. Keeping track of when the ache occurs and what makes it better or worse helps your provider diagnose the cause.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have a constant dull ache in my lower back that has been there for weeks.
Tengo un dolor sordo constante en la parte baja de la espalda que ha durado semanas.
My shoulder has a dull, nagging ache that never fully goes away.
Mi hombro tiene un dolor sordo y persistente que nunca desaparece del todo.
I have a dull ache in my stomach that gets a little worse after I eat.
Tengo un dolor sordo en el estómago que empeora un poco después de comer.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026